What we treat Shoulder
Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is a painful condition that occurs when the fluid-filled sacs, called bursae, that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints become inflamed. In the shoulder, this typically affects the subacromial bursa, leading to discomfort during overhead movements and even while resting.
Common Symptoms
If you are experiencing these signs, your pain may correlate with shoulder bursitis.
Pain that intensifies quickly when reaching for shelves, lifting your arm sideways, or combing your hair.
Difficulty finding a comfortable sleeping position and waking up when rolling onto the affected shoulder.
A noticeable decrease in your arm's strength or a persistent feeling of stiffness when attempting to rotate the arm.
The tip of your shoulder feels tender to the touch, and you may notice minor swelling or heat around the joint.
How We Diagnose It in Physical Therapy
Diagnosis at Hoban Physical Therapy isn't just about identifying the location of pain; it's about uncovering the 'why' behind the inflammation. We combine clinical precision with functional movement analysis to create a roadmap for your recovery.
01
We perform specific orthopedic provocation tests to differentiate bursitis from rotator cuff tears or impingement syndromes.
02
Analysis of scapular rhythm and shoulder mechanics during functional tasks to identify imbalances that compress the bursa.
03
Precise palpation of the subacromial space and isometric strength testing to map the extent of inflammation and cuff weakness.
Specialized Manual Therapy
We utilize hands-on mobilization techniques to reduce pressure on the inflamed bursa, improve joint mechanics, and immediately alleviate pain. Our clinical expertise ensures targeted relief right where it's needed.
Functional Movement Correction
Beyond pain relief, we identify the postural and movement patterns that caused the bursitis. We rebuild your shoulder stability and strength through specific functional exercises designed for your lifestyle.
Long-term Prevention & Performance
Our ultimate goal is ensuring your shoulder stays healthy. We equip you with a tailored home program and ergonomic strategies to prevent future flare-ups and help you excel in your daily activities.
Exercises to Start With
Moving early is key to recovery. These foundational, low-impact movements are designed to maintain mobility without irritating the bursae.
Pendulums: Relax your shoulder and let your arm swing gently in small circles to promote joint lubrication.
Scapular Squeezes: Gently pull your shoulder blades together to improve postural support and offload the shoulder joint.
Doorway Stretch: A mild stretch to open the front of the shoulder, reducing compression in the subacromial space.
Tell us what you want to return to?
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If it sounds like what you have, an evaluation is where we find out properly.